The Mumbai Police have downsized the security of 20 politicians following guidelines issued by the Election Commission.
“After the code of conduct was announced, we conducted a security review,” Additional Commissioner of Police (Protection and Security) Kiran Shelar told The Hindu .
However, politicians have been warned to observe security measures, especially while conducting rallies. Both the Commission and the Home Department have alerted politicians. The Anti-Terrorism Squad has also written to the State Home Ministry on this issue.
“Many VIPs breach security arrangements and mingle with the crowd. This could pose a security threat to leaders. Observing our guidelines is important,” sources in the Maharashtra police told The Hindu .
List of precautionsThe police have handed over a list of precautions to politicians. This includes installing metal detectors outside their homes and offices to frisk visitors. Ministers organising rallies, especially in their home constituency, have been asked to avoid meeting members of the public without background check.
Also, politicians have been asked to stay within the D-cordon (the area between the stage and the crowd) and avoid close interaction with crowds.
“There are many leaders who break this cordon. Therefore, as a policy we now ensure that the first layer of the public is reserved for women and the elderly, who are seen as less of a threat. Male participants are kept at a distance,” sources in the State police said.
